Heartwarming reason England and Wales stars set to walk out with 22 adult mascots during Wembley clash

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ENGLAND and Wales stars will walk out with 22 adult mascots for their Wembley clash.Players are usually accompanied by children when they walk out on to the hallowed turf.GettyThomas Tuchel signed letters to the 22 individuals[/caption]GettyEngland players will once again go nameless on the backs of their shirts[/caption]But as the match is designated as an Alzheimer’s Society England international game, the youngest mascot will be aged in their 50s.All 22 mascots will be men and women who are living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.They have each carried out work with the Alzheimer’s Society and were invited to be mascots in letters signed by Thomas Tuchel.The move is designed to promote the work of the Alzheimer’s Society, while rewarding those who have helped raise awareness by speaking at events, visiting schools and colleges and lobbying politicians.England stars will also play without their names on the back of their shirts.The Three Lions did the same for the second half of their 2-2 draw with Belgium last year.The step has been made to raise awareness around the seriousness of the condition, of which memory loss is a symptom.FA chief Mark Bullingham said: “Our partnership with Alzheimer’s Society continues to raise vital funds and awareness for those impacted by dementia.“And the twenty-two people living with a diagnosis who will walk out at Wembley alongside the national teams will ensure this message resonates more than ever.”One of the mascots, Andy Paul, 66, revealed his pride after receiving the invitation. He said: “I didn’t think at my age I’d ever do something like this, and I was absolutely overwhelmed when I heard the news.“I’m going to cherish this opportunity; to have my family there watching and to share the moment with them will be incredibly special.“I also hope it will show people that dementia isn’t necessarily what you might expect, and that being diagnosed doesn’t mean you suddenly stop doing the things you love.”GettyCraig Bellamy will lead out his Wales side[/caption]